A few times a year, I receive requests for informational interviews from recent graduates interested in entering my field. I'm always happy to accommodate these requests, but I want to make sure I'm not overlooking any key information or advice that I could be passing on. If you've given informational interviews yourself, or if you're someone who has benefited from good informational interviews as you got started in your field, I'd like to hear from you! [more inside]
posted by fizzyliftingdrink
on Jun 23, 2016 -
3 answers

I’ve been a freelancer for over a decade. It’s had its good points, but I’m feeling burned out and ready for something new. I would like to find a full-time salaried position, but I’m feeling a little lost about how to go about it. Can you offer guidance? [more inside]
posted by anonymous
on Mar 2, 2016 -
5 answers

A few weeks ago i ran into an acquaintance and mentioned that I was looking for a new job. She said that she knew the CEO of a company that she thought I would be a good fit for, and gave me his and the company's name, along with permission to mention that I got his info from her. What do I do with this? [more inside]
posted by anonymous
on Jul 28, 2015 -
5 answers

A few of my former colleagues would be very good people to network with. The only problem is that there a few of them I haven't spoken to in years (as in, more than ten years in one case). Is there a way to get in touch with people via a networking email that won't make me seem like a stalker or a blatant opportunist? [more inside]
posted by anonymous
on Jun 19, 2015 -
14 answers

Teach me how to make the most of this opportunity to network, while avoiding specific pitfalls like drooling on myself or saying dumb nervous things. Difficulty level: I don't currently work in the field, so people are going to be less interested in networking with me than I am with them (unless they are actively seeking a mentee, or open to it). [more inside]
posted by nightrecordings
on Jun 11, 2015 -
6 answers

Pretty basic: my partner and I are relocating from the East Coast to Los Angeles in July; I am hoping to find a job (or jobs) in one of LA's many fascinating cultural institutions. Primarily looking for positions in research, outreach, or education. I am looking for any suggestions as to listserves, forums, job posting boards, or other places where I can start looking for posted positions, as well as any local groups like the EMPs that I might be able to join once there. [more inside]
posted by anonymous
on May 11, 2014 -
6 answers

Networking Etiquette.
I am starting out on a new job search, and I was hoping to learn some pointers in networking etiquette. I have recently received a graduate degree in Public Relations/Communications. My main contacts are people in my program and professors. I am interested in what is the proper manner to introduce myself to people outside of my current circle with the ultimate aim of landing a job in this field. I appreciate any advise you may have. Thanks!
posted by dfc5656
on Dec 5, 2012 -
3 answers

I’m a dissatisfied academic looking to enter the workforce, and I’ve been trying to use informational interviews to begin building a professional network, but it doesn’t seem to be working. What am I doing wrong? [more inside]
posted by The Art of Sockpuppetry
on Apr 3, 2012 -
24 answers

I'm in the final months of my university degree, and several companies (finance related) who I'll be applying for work with are holding 'networking' events on campus. How exactly does one 'network'? [more inside]
posted by moorooka
on Feb 27, 2011 -
5 answers

I think networking is the missing element to my rather unsuccessful job search effort. Any suggestions as to how I could grow my network usefully? How much about "networking" is hype? [more inside]
posted by anonymous
on Mar 30, 2010 -
12 answers

How do I network with individuals when I don't need a job? I recently met a person who I think could be really helpful next time I'm looking for a job, but that likely won't be for a couple of years. How do I keep in touch in the meantime? [more inside]
posted by JannaK
on Feb 8, 2010 -
11 answers

I was recently passed over for an interview for a great job because of (I strongly believe) my lack of references (which the ad requested, but I submitted without anyway because my other qualifications were strong). I don’t have any references. Not professional. Not personal. I’m dependable (to a fault!), hardworking, and stable (years-long resume gap notwithstanding), but I have no way of proving this. I suffered from crippling depression and anxiety for years... [more inside]
posted by anonymous
on Sep 15, 2008 -
25 answers

There's a job opening and it turns out I have a contact there. How can I make the most of it without just being told to "apply online"? [more inside]
posted by luckyveronica
on Aug 21, 2008 -
3 answers

I'm going to be graduating with my PhD in chemistry within the next year or so. Should I get business cards? Should I order them with the university logo or just get something with my basic contact info? [more inside]
posted by sararah
on Apr 14, 2008 -
19 answers

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